Among the 35+ portable shrines paraded during the Hyozu Festival in Yasu, Shiga Prefecture, Japan, two are carried only by women. They are called "Ayame," meaning iris flowers. One is a portable shrine (mikoshi) and the other is a taiko drum. The festival is held annually on May 5 at Hyozu Taisha Shrine. Photos: http://photoguide.jp/pix/thumbnails.php?album=798
What a bizarre custom!
MizAnya 1 year ago